By Nadine Shaalan

According to the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy (NCPPSP), less than 2 percent of cats and only 15 to 20 percent of dogs are returned to their owners. Most of those were identified with tags, tattoos or microchips.

“You have no idea how many stray dogs we see in here,” said Michelle Garrett of Anthem Pet Medical Center. Reuniting microchipped pets with their owners is highly successful, as long as the owner’s contact information is up to date, Garrett said. “I highly recommend doing it.”

A microchip is a tiny radio transponder implanted just under your pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. The chip contains a registration number and the phone number of the registry associated with that brand of chip. When a dog or cat is found, an animal shelter or vet clinic can scan the chip and contact the registry with the registration number to get the pet owner’s contact information.

We asked members of three area hospitals if they would recommend microchipping for all pets. All three answered with the same word: “Absolutely.”

Prices in the area range from about $50–80 and include at least one year of registration. The process does not require anesthesia. Many people chose to microchip when they spay/neuter their pet.

“I think it is as important as vaccinating your animals,” said Sara Watson, currently celebrating the return of her lost dog. “You just never know when they might get out. If they do not have a collar or their tags fall off, it is often the only way for your beloved pet to be returned to you.”

There are many brands of chips, many registries and many types of scanners. Some scanners are capable of reading multiple types of chips. While the American Microchip Advisory Council is working to develop a network to streamline the return of pets, it’s still best to choose a common brand.

Microchips are only good if you keep your contact information current. Remember to update your info when you move or your phone number changes. io